Scientists have used oxygen deprivation to induce a reversible state of hibernation in mice, a finding that may lead to major improvements in trauma care, organ transplantation or other situations when doctors need to suspend bodily functions.

“There’s every reason to think this can be done in humans as well,” said Mark Roth, a cell biologist at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and lead investigator of a study published in today’s edition of Science magazine.

It’s the first time induced hibernation has been achieved in a non-hibernating mammal, transforming the mouse from a warmblooded creature to a coldblooded state of near suspended animation with no heartbeat, respiration or other signs of life.

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